In photos: The 37th Kulay Sa Tubig National Watercolor Competition

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Watercolor is widely regarded as the most demanding artistic medium. Mastery requires not just technical skill, but the ability to control fluidity with precision—balancing spontaneity with thoughtful intention. It is a discipline where only true masters can harness the unpredictable nature of water and pigment to create powerful, evocative works.

For over three decades, Kulay Sa Tubig has been at the forefront of promoting watercolor in the Philippines. Now in its 37th year, Gallery Genesis proudly presents the highly anticipated Kulay Sa Tubig National Watercolor Invitational Competition. Each year, this prestigious event gathers the nation’s finest talents—both established and emerging—celebrating the enduring allure of watercolor.

From hundreds of submissions across the country, Gallery Genesis carefully selects the most exceptional pieces for exhibition. The competition is fierce, as artists vie not only for recognition but for the coveted honor of being named among the Top 5 Watercolorists in the Philippines.

With no restrictions on subject matter, the resulting showcase is a vibrant tapestry of themes and perspectives. Whether inspired by rural landscapes, bustling cities, cultural heritage, personal narratives, or abstract expressions, each work reflects the artist’s unique story and creative vision.

The 37th Kulay Sa Tubig Awards Night was held at the 2/F North Wing Bridgeway, Estancia Mall, Capitol Commons, Ortigas Center, Pasig City, on Saturday, September 20, 2025. Exhibit runs until October 27, 2025.

Join us and witness the rise—the genesis—of the next generation of master watercolorists.

Artists who have participated in Kulay Sa Tubig have often gone on to achieve significant acclaim, with many experiencing a remarkable rise in their artistic careers. Those who have consistently demonstrated excellence by winning the competition three times earn a place in the prestigious KST Hall of Fame—a distinction reserved for the most outstanding practitioners of watercolor in the country.

These Hall of Fame inductees are regarded as the finest in the realm of aquarelle, having proven their mastery, vision, and dedication to the medium. Their repeated success is a testament not only to their talent but to their unwavering commitment to their craft.

Among these celebrated artists are Jose ‘Ping’ Ceriola, Margarita ‘Marge’ Lim, Rodelo ‘Toti’ Cerda, Egai Fernandez, Jimmy Vista, Victor Ng, Noli Manalang, and many more—each one leaving an indelible mark on the Philippine watercolor scene.

List of Hall of Fame Artists:

Baldemor, Manuel 'Manny'

Canasa, Nel

Canlas, Renato 'Rene'

Cerda, Rodelio 'Toti'

Ceriola, Jose 'Ping'

Dans, Araceli

Delotavo, Antipas 'Biboy'

Eduarte, Clarence

Fernandez, Edgar 'Egai'

Guina, Rolando ‘Rolan’

Habulan, Renato 'Ato'

Ladrido, Benjie

Lim, Margarita 'Marge'

Manalang, Noli Principe

Mirang, Christian 'Chris'

Ng, Victor

Pabilando, Joie (Newly inducted following the 37th KST Awards Night)

Paguiligan, Julian Eymard

Patricio, Ernesto 'Ernie'

Pomida, Virgilio 'Billy', Jr.

Romeo, Richard (Newly inducted following the 37th KST Awards Night)

Santos, Pablo 'Adi' Baen

Vista, Jimmy

Wong, Shui Long